I have wrapped the upper part of the legs of my Bogen #3020 tripod with foam-padded bicycle handlebar tape. The tripod has been modified by Mike Kirk of KIRK ENTERPRISES to allow the legs to extend straight out. Now the tripod can be lowered all the way to the ground–great for macro work. They shorten the center post and mill away part of the casting at the top of each leg. For $35 plus UPS shipping, your tripod can be modified in about one-week. For more information and a price list of their custom-made quick releases, tele-lens mount, ball heads, and flash brackets, call their Customer Support line at (219) 665-3670 Monday thru Friday.

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Visit Bob's website at http://www.apogeephoto.com/800get_foto.html